Judge may allow video streaming of Leuthold trial

PEORIA — Peoria County Circuit Judge Kevin Lyons implied Wednesday that the trial of Nathan Leuthold could be the first in Peoria County to be live streamed by the media.

The trial, expected to begin next month, won’t be the first with extended media in the Peoria County Courthouse under a recent ruling by the Illinois Supreme Court, but could likely be the first with television or video recording.

Lyons said during a motion hearing Wednesday that the court has received requests from one local television station, WEEK-TV, Channel 25; one national network, NBC; and the Journal Star.

Leuthold faces murder charges after allegedly shooting his wife last Valentine’s Day and staging a burglary to cover up the crime.

His attorney, Hugh Toner, said while he thought the court process should be transparent, he has concerns that cameras or other equipment could be distracting or intimidating to witnesses and jurors.

“Mr. Leuthold’s primary concern, or for anybody in this position I would think, is having a fair trial,” Toner said. “Anything that would diminish that would be objectionable.”

Lyons said while he thought that added media coverage could enhance the public’s view of the court system, he also had concerns about discretion.

“The public has a right to a public trial, but not necessarily on the courthouse lawn with a lemonade stand on the corner,” Lyons said.

Leuthold’s trial likely will be held in room 214 — a larger courtroom that also was used during the high profile trial of Christopher Harris last year.

His intention is to allow one “unnoticeable, unobstructive” camera, with a single stream of video from the courtroom.

Other media, such as still photographers, would likely be restricted to a designated area.

State’s Attorney Jerry Brady took a neutral position on the issue.

Laura Nightengale can be reached at 686-3181 or lnightengale@pjstar.com. Follow her on Twitter @lauranight.